Lost in Translation

A few weeks ago, I shared a post about a Merlina poster that featured an interesting use of the word “ortiva.” I didn’t expect that post to spark such a rich conversation about the deeper meaning of words and how they reflect much more than their literal definitions.

Lost in Translation by Ella Frances Sanders

Among the comments, ideas emerged that led me straight to one of my favorite books: *Lost in Translation* by Ella Frances Sanders, a little gem that my sister Pilar recommended to me. This book shows how certain words are much more than just vocabulary: they’re a window into the way a culture understands and inhabits the world.

When we come across an “untranslatable” word, it’s not simply that there is no exact translation. It’s actually an opportunity to glimpse a different worldview. These words capture how a culture relates to time, nature, and life’s deepest emotions.

For example:

• Komorebi (Japanese): sunlight filtering through the leaves of trees. It’s not just an image; it’s a moment of connection with nature.

• Saudade (Portuguese): a sense of longing for someone or something absent, yet with the hope of a reunion.

• Waldeinsamkeit (German): the feeling of solitude experienced when alone in a forest.

These words offer small clues about what each culture considers important. They are mirrors that reflect values, emotions, and ways of thinking. And that is hugely significant when we talk about working with multicultural teams.

Because even within the same country or the same company, meanings change. A word that is positive for some may be neutral or even negative for others. When we apply this to a global context, the complexity multiplies.

This is where multicultural leadership comes in. A leader who develops cultural sensitivity not only avoids misunderstandings but also unlocks a true superpower: the ability to innovate, connect, and create authentic experiences that resonate across different markets. Understanding these nuances allows us to build more cohesive teams and brands with purpose and global reach.

In a globalized world, multiculturalism is no longer just a “nice-to-have” but has become a strategic pillar. Investing in cultural awareness isn’t an expense—it’s an investment in growth, innovation, and the positive impact of teams and organizations.

See you next time!

P.S.: If you’re interested in cultural awareness and how to empower multicultural teams, I invite you to follow me on Substack. Subscribe here to instantly receive every new post in this series. 🚀🌍